Documentary Aims to Showcase LGBT Acceptance in Alabama

New York-based filmmaker Bonnie Blue Edwards is making a feature-length documentary, Out In Alabama, about the communities in Alabama where LGBT rights are embraced. The film aims to provide an intimate view of the people who defy prejudice and to showcase the continued hope and redemption in Alabama, as well as across the globe. It aims to serve as an example of how easy it can be to simply love a perceived enemy, and to rise above bigotry to allow intolerance to dissipate into understanding.

The promo video for the film states that the documentary will “turn the stereotype on its head and be an inspiring glimpse into the progressive movements happening within unexpected places. It will celebrate the courageous individuals who are pioneering change while also celebrating the culture of the South.”

Edwards, originally from Alabama, says of the film: “It is our goal to share these stories in the hope of inspiring further acceptance of the LGBT community, not only in Alabama, but worldwide, as well as reigniting the universal responsibility for compassion.”

She got her start in the arts after studying international business through the storytelling juggernaut The Moth, and recently worked alongside Oscar-nominated actors and producers on the set of Stealing Cars, an independent feature film slated for release in 2015.

Acting as a consultant on the film is Academy Award winner Cynthia Wade, known for her Cinemax/LOGO short documentary Freeheld, about a dying policewoman fighting to leave her pension to her female life partner. This film is now in production as a major motion picture starring Julianne Moore, Ellen Page and Zach Galifianakis. Her work has been seen on HBO/Cinemax, PBS, A&E, AMC, The History Channel, LOGO, Oxygen, MTV, and Discovery.

The filmmakers are currently seeking funds for further development and initial footage essential for launching into production via crowdfunding on Kickstarter, hoping to raise $25,000 by May 22. Find out more about that effort here.